SUBJECT: Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland students to receive over $95,000 in scholarships

DATE: Nov. 16,2011

Eighty-six Marine Institute (MI) students will be rewarded for their academic excellence and leadership skills at an evening celebration tonight. It will recognize their commitment to pursuing their chosen careers in the oceans sector.

The annual Fall Scholarship and Awards Presentation will take place at MIs Hampton Hall on Wednesday, Nov.16 at 7:30 p.m. It is made possible through the generosity of local and national businesses, organizations and individuals.

Each year, the scholarship program at the Marine Institute continues to grow and this year was no exception. Newly added scholarships include the Canadian Association of Prawn Producers scholarship and the Roy Russell Memorial bursary.

Students continue to be a top priority of the Marine Institute. Without them we would not exist, said Glenn Blackwood, executive director of the Marine Institute. They are the driving force behind our innovative learning approaches and world class programs. They are energetic, ambitious, dedicated and we take great pride in recognizing and supporting them as they pursue their education and training.

Id also like to acknowledge the tremendous support of the donors who recognize the immense value in supporting these students as they strive to become leaders in their chosen field. Without them, none of this would be possible.

Mr. Kent Decker, vice-president, Administration and Finance, Memorial University of Newfoundland will be on hand to offer welcoming remarks and address the award-winning students.

Also addressing the students will be Mr. Glenn Blackwood, executive director of the Marine Institute and Mr. Alistair OReilly, assistant deputy minister, Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture and member of the Marine Institute Advisory Committee.

In total, 97 scholarships will be awarded.

The Marine Institute is North Americas most comprehensive institute dedicated to education, training, applied research and industrial support for the oceans industries.